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earnest (1)

ear·nest [ úrnəst ]


adjective 
Definition:
 
1. serious and solemn: intensely or excessively serious and grave in manner or attitude
an earnest expression
earnest discussions about privacy and propriety

2. done in deeply sincere way: undertaken or made in a spirit of deep sincerity and conviction, or with deep feeling
He interrupted me with an earnest assurance of help and support.

[ Old English eornost< Germanic]

ear·nest·ly adverb
ear·nest·ness noun

in earnest 

1. 
serious and sincere in your actions, words, or intentions
Is she in earnest?
 

2. 
in a determined and purposeful way
Now the campaign would begin in earnest.


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